Sump pumps are essential components of your home’s plumbing system. They keep water out of your basement and prevent foundation damage.
Make sure your sump pump is running optimally by scheduling an annual maintenance checkup. Doing this can save time and money in the long run.
Choosing a Sump Pump
As a homeowner, you want to ensure your home is safeguarded against floods and water damage. That is why having an effective sump pump in place is so important; these pumps help remove water from basements before it becomes a major problem.
When selecting a sump pump, there are several factors to take into account. First and foremost, determine how much water your pit must hold so that you can determine the appropriate size pump for your requirements.
Another factor to consider when selecting your sump pump is its head pressure. This refers to the height at which water must rise from within the machine before reaching its discharge pipe. A pump that has too low a head pressure won’t be able to handle all the water that enters into your pit.
Once you select your pump, you must decide on which type of switch will activate it. You have two choices: a diaphragm switch or an electronic switch.
Diaphragm switches are the most common type and work similarly to your toilet’s diaphragm, flipping concave as water rises and in and out when it lowers. These types of switches tend to be less likely to get stuck on or off.
Selecting the proper sump pump for your home is critical, particularly if you live in a flood-prone area. With the correct pump installed, you can help avoid expensive repairs and insurance claims.
Furthermore, a properly sized sump pump can keep your home dry and comfortable during severe storms. When selecting a quality pump for this purpose, make sure it has an extended lifespan and works with the drainage points present in your residence.
A professional can recommend the ideal sump pump for your requirements. Popular brands include Zoeller and Superior Pump, both renowned for their reliable, effective products.
Installation
Sump pumps are an effective solution to protect your basement from water damage. These devices are easy to install and will help prevent flooding and other issues caused by excess groundwater. Furthermore, they act as a backup in case of power outages or other emergencies.
According to your choice of sump pump, you may need to install a pit under your foundation or crawl space. This pit collects water and funnels it towards the pump. Once full, a float switch (or sensor) activates, activating the pump and draining away from your home.
Once your sump pump is installed, it is essential to test the system periodically to guarantee everything functions optimally. This can be done by pouring a bucket of water into the pit and waiting for activation; if not working, you need to replace the sump pump.
Test the discharge pipe. If your pump isn’t flushing properly, clean out debris or rocks that have built up inside of it. Alternatively, use a plumbing snake to dislodge any obstruction.
Once the pipe is clean, plug it back in and turn on. Slowly pour a bucket of water into the pit until you hear a float switch or pressure switch activate.
If your float switch won’t engage, contact a professional to repair your pump. They can ensure it is functioning correctly and not causing any other issues in your house.
Saving money on a sump pump by replacing it before it breaks down is the best option. Without one, water can cause extensive damage to your home – including structural issues and mold growth. With an effective sump pump in place, you’ll save money in the long run!
If you are searching for a new sump pump, Jenkintown PA is an ideal option. This borough in Montgomery County is only 10 miles north of Center City Philadelphia and boasts plenty of attractions such as museums and nature parks.
Maintenance
For your sump pump to operate optimally, regular maintenance must be conducted. Doing this helps you prevent having to make an emergency call when something goes awry with the unit.
Plumbing professionals usually suggest performing basic maintenance on your sump pump every three to four months, followed by a full checkup once annually.
Before anything else, test your sump pump to ensure it functions correctly and will turn on when needed. To do this, pour a bucket of water down into the pit until it reaches a depth of nine inches or so; if the float arm rises along with the water level and activates automatically, you are all set.
Additionally, inspect the impeller and screen of your pump to make sure they are free from dirt or debris. Clogged components can cause your sump pump to malfunction and create further issues in the future.
A clogged impeller can often be remedied quickly and easily; however, if the water in your basement still isn’t draining properly, more extensive repairs may be necessary. The problem could be that the discharge pipe has become blocked due to vegetation or frozen pipes which prevent proper drainage of water.
Another issue that may affect your sump pump is rust. If this occurs, the parts must be cleaned or replaced to avoid further damage.
Alternatively, the float switch can become jammed. This issue is easily remedied by loosening the float.
If your pump isn’t functioning properly, it’s essential to double-check that all electrical connections are made. This can be done by inspecting the outlet, breaker box and any ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs). If none of these are malfunctioning, your electrical supply should be fine.
The next step in a professional inspection is to examine your sump pump’s float switch. This plastic tube rises with the water level in your pit and signals for your pump to start discharging once it reaches a certain point.
Repairs
Sump pumps are an integral part of home protection. Not only does it guarantee basement waterproofing, but it also prevents water from accumulating in basement or crawlspace areas that could lead to costly water damage.
To keep your home dry and prevent problems with your sump pump, set up a maintenance plan. This includes an inspection, deep-cleaning, and any necessary repairs.
When your sump pump needs repair, it is essential that a qualified professional come in and do the work. They will understand how to correctly repair your sump pump and guarantee its proper functionality.
A professional can ensure your pit is the proper size for your sump pump and has a removable cover to prevent water evaporating into your basement. Furthermore, having your pit cleaned regularly – particularly during rainy season – is recommended.
Another issue that may occur is power outages, which could disrupt your sump pump’s operation. To avoid this inconvenience, it’s wise to install a backup sump pump that can be activated in case of an outage.
If you notice any problems with your sump pump, it is imperative that you call a plumber for repairs immediately. They can diagnose the issue and provide an effective solution as quickly as possible.
They will also install new pumps for you and give a detailed estimate. This will give you peace of mind that your home is secure during storms.
There are various reasons you might need to have your sump pump replaced in Jenkintown PA. It could be worn down, damaged, or it could have stopped working altogether. Whatever the cause, it is wise to have it replaced before it completely fails. Doing so could save you money in the long run by helping avoid expensive repairs down the line.
